6 SKINCARE SWITCHES TO MAKE FOR WINTER

13 May 2018

By now, you’ve likely noticed a chill in the air.

The temperature has nosedived, the winds have picked up, and you’ve probably considered switching on the heating. As the season of log fires and cosy nights at home approaches, it’s important to consider the changing needs of your skin.

Just think - we alter our wardrobes in accordance to the seasons, packing away floaty dresses in lieu of cosy coats come May, so it makes sense that we do the same with our beauty routine. The needs of our skin fluctuate throughout the seasons, and products that may have not felt quite right in the summer months can be perfect for tackling the biting cold.

“Winter brings with it harsh weather, shorter days, less sunshine, and a dramatic change in diet from seasonal salads and fruits to soups and warmer food. All these factors have a direct impact on skin tone and radiance” explains Noella Gabriel, co-founder and creator of ELEMIS therapies. “The skin responds in a different way for each individual - some become oily, others dehydrated and others very sensitive. However, the key requirements remain largely the same: protection, nourishment, and nutrients.”

So, where to start? Start making these simple tweaks to your skincare routine now, and maintain a healthy glow right through to Spring…

1. Don’t skip exfoliation

It’s tempting to eschew exfoliation in the colder months, as skin can feel more in need of nourishment and hydration. However, it’s still important to aid cell turnover.

“All skin types need to exfoliate to reduce the build-up of dead skin cells on the surface” explains Noella. “This will allow the skin to breathe better, and aid a glowing, radiant complexion. Another key benefit of exfoliation is that the products you use afterwards will absorb more easily into the skin.”

For your face, a product containing resurfacing acids is ideal. ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel contains natural fruit enzymes that dissolve the dead cells on the surface of the skin, leaving the path clear for optimum absorption of your serums, treatments and boosters.

Additionally, it’s important not to forget the rest of your body. A scrub treatment will not only invigorate your senses, but help tackle the build-up of dry skin on your hands, elbows and feet. Apply ELEMIS Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow in the shower to reveal brighter, softer skin in just 3 minutes.

2. Embrace oils

If you are yet to incorporate an oil ito your skincare roster, winter is the perfect time to do so. “During the winter months it’s important to switch to oil-based products because the body is challenged to adjust to the extreme temperature changes” explains Noella.

You can think of a facial oil as an extra layer of nourishment, which can prove vital when constantly moving between biting cold and central heating. Apply an anti-oxidant rich formula, such as ELEMIS Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules, to a cleansed and toned complexion. Try applying a warm flannel to the face first to soften the pores and aid absorption, and avoid overloading the delicate eye area.

What’s more, your facial oil will make a luxurious hydrating treatment for dry, chapped lips, locking in hydration beneath your lipstick. And if there’s any left on your fingertips, simply smooth it into your cuticles.

3. Layer up

Just as you might slip an insulating base layer on when getting dressed in the morning, it’s important to give your skin that extra protection from the chill, too. Cold climates leave your skin less able to protect itself, which can lead to the development of dryness, sensitivity, and even inflammation.

“During the winter months it is wise to introduce an extra layer under your daytime moisturiser to help the skin adjust to the challenges made on it” says Noella. For noticeable results, opt for a deeply hydrating serum. Look for formulas containing Hyaluronic Acid – such as ELEMIS Hydra-Boost Serum – which has the ability to hold 100 times its weight in water, locking moisture within the skin all day long. Be sure to top with a protective day cream to seal all the goodness within the cells.

4. Know your textures

While it may be tempting to simply reach for heavier textures in the depths of winter, this may not always be the best solution for your skin. “Because moisturisers are so beautifully designed today in texture and technology you do not need to change your moisturiser as the seasons change – what you may need to change, however, if what you use underneath it” advises Noella. “I would add in a serum or oil - like our Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules - rather than changing to a heavier textured moisturiser which is not necessarily the answer. Remember, the denser the texture the more it sits on the skin, rather than sinking into the cells.”

5. Add a mask

Let the steam from a lovely hot bath loosen those pores and allow the firming ingredients of our Pro-Collagen Marine Mask to penetrate more deeply. If you’re feeling too sleepy to rinse it off, you can always hop into bed and use it as a night mask – then cleanse your face after a solid 8 hours of beauty sleep.

6. See an expert

If you’ve noticed changes in your skin this Winter - it could be flaking patches, sensitivity, or redness – then a therapist could set you on the right path.

“It’s important to have a skin consultation with a trained therapist when there is a change in season as they will be able to assess your individual skin needs. For example, they may recommend changing the texture of your cleanser, or treating your skin with specific ingredients” explains Noella. Lotus Spa offers ELEMIS consultations in the Spa, and we can also help you over the phone where a therapist will assess your skin and provide personalised advice. Armed with the correct knowledge, you’ll be able to make the best choices for your skin, whatever the season.